Top Tips for Attending LSE Summer School

My name is James, and I attended LSE Summer School in 2025. My time at LSE was life-changing, and it will be for you too – however, I want to share some top tips I wish someone had told me to make the most of your time abroad.

1. Always carry an umbrella

London weather has a personality of its own. One moment it’s sunny, the next you’re sprinting out of the Tube through the rain to class and wondering where to put your soaked umbrella! I learned quickly that weather is unpredictable, and it’s always worth being prepared. So, please always have an umbrella in your bag just in case, and maybe carry a clear bag for your umbrella after the rain too! You’ll thank yourself when you’re dry, focused, and not dripping water onto your computer.

2. Don’t sweat the small stuff

There’s no questioning that LSE Summer School work requires hard work. When I first saw the reading list, I was overwhelmed, and tried to get through everything too quickly, meaning I didn’t take it all in. After a conversation with my lecturer, we decided to focus on core reading to supplement my knowledge and focus on engaging and actively participating with the lectures and seminars, as this was how I learned best. I finished at the top of my class and focused on understanding the key themes and applying them, rather than memorising every page.

3. Arrive early to events

Whether it’s a guest lecture panel with LSE entrepreneurs or a British Pub Quiz night (highly recommend!), seats fill up fast. Most LSE events operate on a first come, first served basis, so by arriving a little early, you’ll not only get a good seat but also have extra time to chat with the global friends you will meet before the event begins. From experience, I once showed up ‘just on time’ and didn’t get a seat.

 

4. Make a genuine effort to get out of your comfort zone

It’s normal to miss food from home, but luckily London is full of incredible cuisines, and your stomach should be too! I recommend exploring new restaurants and finding your home away from home comforts - one of my favourite memories was my friend from China taking me to what he described as the best authentic Chinese food, and the meal exceeding both of our expectations! Be open to exploring the city’s food scene, it’s a great way to bond with new friends and connect with different cultures.

5. Take notes like they’ll matter later (because they will)

One of my biggest realisations came months after the programme. During a recent job interview, I found myself drawing on the material I learned at LSE. Because I had taken clear notes and reflected on my classes, I was able to connect what I studied to real-world problems within the tech industry, and it helped me reach the final round of interviews. The lessons you learn at LSE will stay with you long after the programme ends, so write them down and keep them handy.